Diablo 4’s next expansion, Lord of Hatred, introduces two new classes, including the highly requested Paladin, a fan-favorite from Diablo 2.
Blizzard will launch Lord of Hatred officially on April 28, but if you pre-purchase the expansion now, you can instantly start playing as the Paladin right now. The Paladin blends traditional close-quarters combat with divine magic and introduces new mechanics that expand how players approach build diversity and role identity in Diablo 4.
Since launch, Diablo 4 has steadily expanded beyond its original classes—Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, and Sorcerer—introducing new gameplay possibilities and responding to player feedback. The Spiritborn, added in the Vessel of Hatred expansion in 2024, was the first major addition; the Paladin will follow as a fresh archetype rooted in the franchise’s classic fantasy roots. The other new class is a secret for now.
Although specifics about the Paladin’s full kit and abilities are still emerging, early reports indicate that it will harness holy powers, defensive auras, and weapon-based combat, likely including shields and blessings that support both solo and group playstyles. It was always one of my favorite playstyles in Diablo 2.
Building on Diablo’s signature loot and skill systems, the Paladin is expected to offer a versatile experience that appeals to players who enjoy mix-and-match build creativity.
Season 11 and Patch 2.5.0 for Diablo 4 are live now. The update brings sweeping changes to core systems like itemization, combat tuning, and more—setting the stage for players to dive into new content and theorycraft around how the Paladin might reshape meta strategies once Lord of Hatred arrives next spring.
According to Blizzard, this is the story setup for the new expansion: “In the aftermath of Vessel of Hatred, this next chapter drives players toward their final stand against Mephisto, whose deception and spreading influence threaten to twist Sanctuary into a world consumed by malice. As Hell’s legions surge and the ancient Pools of Creation draw Mephisto ever closer, the fate of humanity hangs by a thread. To stop him, the Wanderer must embrace an old foe long believed to be dead. Lilith returns, her prophetic last words echoing true, forcing a perilous alliance bound by necessity rather than trust. With time and allies running out, the Wanderer is in a desperate race to stop Mephisto before hatred reshapes the world forever.”
Check out more details on the Lord of Hatred expansion at the Diablo 4 website once it’s updated.